Mon River Rail Trail System: Caperton Trail

Morgantown is known as the home of West Virginia University, the inspiration for a Joni Mitchell song and the birthplace of Don Knotts. And it's also known for its wonderful trails: the Mon River Rail-Trail System. The nexus of this 45-mile trail system is Hazel Ruby McQuain Park in downtown Morgantown. Located adjacent to a restored railway station, the park is a vibrant hub of local activity, with a steady stream of walkers, runners, skaters and cyclists. The rail-trail that runs through the park-stretching 6.5 miles to the north and 19.5 miles to the south-hugs the Monongahela River, one of a few American rivers that flows north. The "Mon" eventually arrives in Pittsburgh, where it joins the Allegheny River to form the Ohio River.

This system of trails, which follows a former CSX rail line, comprises four segments, each with their own name.

The Caperton Trail, the middle section, is named after a former West Virginia governor and is a paved 5.5-mile route between the edge of Morgantown on the south and edge of Star City on the north. This trail parallels the river past retail businesses, the university, industrial areas and the back decks of eateries that cater to trail users.

The paved trail is perfect for rollerblading, walking and biking. It runs through the Edith Barill Park, the WVU Core Arboretum and the Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park. In Star City, continue along the trail, which becomes the Mon River Trail North; in south Morgantown, the trail continues as the Mon River Trail South. At Hazel Ruby McQuain Park you can pick up the Mons River Rail-Trail Deckers Creek section and head east.

Park in Morgantown at Ruby Hazel McQuain Riverfront Park, Seneca Center or in a metered parking lot in the Wharf District. In Star City there is parking at Edith Barill Riverfront Park.